Donato Bramante

About the Artist

Donato Bramante, born in 1444 and died in 1514, was an Italian architect active during the High Renaissance. Beginning with a study of Romanesque architecture, he moved to Rome, where he studied ancient architectural styles and established the centralized-plan church form. His work is marked by clear lines and a grand atmosphere, with the Vatican Palace and the Sforza Castle in Milan among his representative achievements. A pioneer of Renaissance architecture, he holds an important place in architectural history. He also had a major influence on Leonardo da Vinci's early career, playing a role in introducing him to the Sforza family.